Tulane University Program

The Tulane University Pediatric Infectious Disease Fellowship provides an immersive training experience combining clinical resources, teaching programs, and laboratory facilities associated with Tulane University School of Medicine, Children's Hospital New Orleans, and Ochsner Medical Center. This integration offers a robust environment for developing expert knowledge in pediatric infectious diseases.

One of the critical strengths of the program lies in its collaborative research activities and integrated teaching programs stemming from the affiliation of two major medical centers in New Orleans. The dual clinical training at Children's Hospital New Orleans and Ochsner Medical Center ensures a rich exposure to a diverse patient population, with a balanced mix of general pediatric patients and subspecialty cases. The facilities are equipped to provide a comprehensive training experience that encompasses both clinical and academic pursuits.

The fellowship program features notable faculty members, such as John Schieffelin, MD, who leads the section of Pediatric Infectious Diseases at Tulane. His research is particularly focused on viral hemorrhagic fevers, including advancements in diagnostics and therapeutic strategies for conditions like dengue and Ebola. This level of expertise among the faculty significantly enhances the educational and research opportunities available to fellow trainees as they engage in advanced clinical care and research activities.

Research fellows in the program are encouraged to conduct independent research in collaboration with full-time faculty. Opportunities to engage in research extend across various departments, including collaborations with the Tulane School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, the Delta Regional Primate Center, and the National Hansen's Disease Program. This interdepartmental approach ensures a comprehensive understanding and contribution to the latest developments in pediatric infectious diseases research.

Curriculum and Rotations

The curriculum of the fellowship is designed to provide fellows with extensive clinical exposure and leadership skills in managing infectious diseases among pediatric populations. Trainees can expect to engage in a robust clinical rotation schedule that encompasses diverse subspecialty areas, allowing for an in-depth understanding of the complexities involved in pediatric infectious diseases.

Research Opportunities

Research is an integral part of the fellowship training at Tulane University. Fellows have the unique opportunity to work on NIH-funded projects and are encouraged to contribute to ongoing research initiatives related to infectious diseases. The focus on varying aspects of research, from epidemiology to clinical trials, allows fellows to position themselves at the forefront of advancements in pediatric infectious disease management.

Application Requirements

Applications for the fellowship can be submitted at any time, which provides flexibility for interested candidates. However, submission is facilitated through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS), where applicants must request an electronic token to access their application.

Special criteria for applicants may include the requirement for a certain level of clinical experience or academic achievement prior to application. It is vital for applicants to be informed of any specific prerequisites, such as year of graduation from medical school and limits on the number of failed USMLE Step exams, underscoring the program’s commitment to selecting highly qualified candidates.

Visa Support

The program is committed to supporting international applicants through several visa types. The program is known to sponsor J-1 Visas for international medical graduates, ensuring that qualified individuals from diverse backgrounds can access training opportunities within this enriching fellowship.

Competitiveness

The fellowship is considered to be highly competitive due to the program’s strong academic framework, prominent faculty, and high-caliber research opportunities. While striving to attract the best candidates, the program remains open to diverse backgrounds, including US-based DO candidates and International Medical Graduates (IMGs), promoting an inclusive training environment.